August 26th is Women's Equality Day here in the United States. Though this is a landmark date, many Americans are still unaware of its existence or the significance of such day.

Women’s Equality Day is largely important to American history. For one, on August 26, 1920, women were officially granted the right to vote in the United States after the certification of the 19th amendment. Fifty years later on August 26, 1970, feminists activists joined ranks on this day to remind our legislators that the buck doesn't stop there. They organized a protest with over 100,000 women to campaign for equality in education, employment and childcare. On this same day in 1971, a national bill was passed to designate August 26th a day of prominence- Women's Equality Day.

This petition is an effort to further recognize the importance of this day to not only make sure that it is enriched in history lessons but that it deemed important enough to take precedence as a federal holiday. By recognizing this day as federally important, we will be commemorating and celebrating the efforts of the women that have come before us as pioneers and activists who sought the need for women's social and political mobility. Also, it an effort to keep the torch burning so that women and girls can live in a society that see and treat them as equals.

However, recognizing this day as a federal holiday does not resolve all efforts to establish equality. There is so much work to be done. (Women are still making less than their male counterparts and for women of color, the gap is far greater. Also, women have lesser numbers in significant forms of leadership.) This initiative will bring us a step closer towards balancing the scale and commemorating efforts that support inclusiveness and equality.

What is a federal holiday? Federal holidays are days recognized by our U.S. government. Usually, the holiday is deemed so important that federal offices are closed. Typically, banks, schools, and post offices refrain from regular activities on these days. Federal law requires the President of the United States to observe these days of significance. A federal holiday may accompany certain activities and ceremonies. The President may make a statement or speech to elevate the day and call on the country to celebrate as well.

The petition to elevate Women’s Equality Day is a call to action to ensure that the efforts of all women are recognized and included. We ask that you “sign to recognize” all women.

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